Don’t Overcomplicate It: Testing Requests, Service Denials, and Straight Talk on Advocacy

Tired of being told “we don’t do that” or “your concern isn’t valid”?This episode of Special Education Boss® is your reminder: you don’t need permission to advocate for your child.Karen Mayer Cunningham returns with another fire Ask the Advocate Q&A—answering real questions from parents, teachers, and advocates nationwide. Whether you’re being told you can’t request testing, the IEP “isn’t needed,” or services were “missed but not a big deal”—this episode gives you clarity, confidence, and next steps.We’re talking:✅ How to request testing (simple, not stressful)✅ Data myths that delay evaluations✅ Predetermination: what it looks like & how to respond✅ When reevaluations are actually necessary✅ Speech-only IEPs, ADHD concerns, and service denials✅ Why missing just one session matters✅ What “refusal” really means in BIPs and IEPs✅ Filing state complaints—the right way✅ Retention, behavior plans, and tracking the right data✅ Why your voice at the table matters more than ever🎯 Plus: Upcoming training details for parents, teachers & advocates who are ready to step in and serve—without confusion or second-guessing.📍 Virtual 2-Day Intensive — June 22–23, 2025📍 In-Person 2-Day Training (Florida) — July 19–20, 2025📍 Join The Academy — Weekly trainings, replays, scripts, and tools:🎙 Listen on YouTube, Buzzsprout, or your favorite podcast platform.💬 Like, share, comment, and subscribe to help more families get access to clear answers and strong support. Support the show✨ When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody. ✨👩‍⚖️ Hosted by Karen Mayer Cunningham, Advocate & Special Education Boss®Each week, Karen shares real stories, legal insights, and no-nonsense strategies to help you navigate special education with clarity and confidence.👉 Subscribe & never miss an episode — new episodes drop every week!🎓 Join The Academy: Weekly live trainings + 250+ hours of advocacy tools & expert resources🔗 Learn more at The Epic IEP™ Academy  First month free, after that, cancel anytime. 📱 Follow Karen on:TikTok & Instagram: @specialeducationbossYouTube: Special Education Academy🧠 Want to level up your advocacy game?Check out the Advocate's Bookshelf — a curated collection of must-have tools, guides, and legal references every special education advocate should own. From federal code to diagnostic manuals, these are the essentials that help you advocate with clarity and confidence.📚 Browse now: https://amzn.to/3RiQPLl(As an Amazon Associate, Karen may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — at no extra cost to you.)Because when...